Tucker Zimmerman may not be the name that you hear everyone talking about when they are scrolling through their Apple Music playlist. However, Zimmerman’s name has been an inspiration to many, and his music acts as a safe space for all to escape the fast-paced reality of the world that we all live in today.
Zimmerman recently released his 11th studio album at the age of 83, which he affectionately named “Dance Of Love.” His first studio album, “Ten Songs,” was released in 1968. Even from his first album, Zimmerman’s music inspired artists like David Bowie. In 2003, Bowie told Vanity Fair that Zimmerman was “way too qualified for folk.” Yet Zimmerman has been known for not getting the recognition that he deserves for the work that he has put out.
Bowie’s admiration for Zimmerman stems from his ability to flesh out his own emotions in every song, Bowie acknowledging how great Zimmerman’s influence in the music industry could truly be. If Zimmerman were a greater influence in the music industry, it would greatly benefit artists who have the ability to recognize the worth of genuine and personal storytelling.
The inspiration that has been relayed to the public between Bowie and Zimmerman proves how different artists can appreciate musical styles and generations beyond their own. Bowie’s fondness for Zimmerman creates the opportunity for his work to not be truly confined by the typical folk boundaries and can reach audiences far and wide.
Zimmerman’s influence extends to modern artists as well — particularly with Zimmerman’s label mate Big Thief. The band plays a significant role in this album, as it is featured in almost every song. The lead singer of Big Thief, Adrianne Lenker, has even gone so far as to say in an Elsewhere piece that Zimmerman’s music has had a significant impact on her personal — not just professional — life. It could be that his impact on artists has been enough for Zimmerman to keep releasing music, touching the life of one person rather than trying to gain the approval of many.
In “Dance Of Love,” the artists are able to build off of each other as a result of the fondness they have formed of each other’s works and the way they work. Zimmerman focuses on themes of love and personal growth, while Big Thief stands on the foundation of emotion and human experience. The combination of the two allows everyone involved to gain something. Zimmerman’s work is brought into a new light as Big Thief is able to convey its ability to tell stories in a profound way.
As soon as I turned on the album, I instantly felt at ease. This reminds me of driving through town in my nana’s car when I was growing up. Something you would hear on the radio and not skip to the next channel. Something my grandfather would turn up a little too loud on the TV when the music video came on — because he could not hear it that well at a normal volume level but knew that it was worth turning up loudly so that everyone could hear in the household and across the street. Something that gives you a sense of inner peace. A consistent sound that is just as predictable as fall is every year.
Through the words, Zimmerman speaks of a lot of life lived and a lot of shared experiences with the ones who are closest to him. The song “The Seasons” seems to be very special to him. Now that he is getting older, Zimmerman is able to see all that he wanted in life take on a new meaning after he has chased his dreams, achieved his goals and chased new dreams.
“Yeah, it’s the season / when all of the dreams of your dreams come true.”
In this song, Zimmerman discusses something that is not talked about enough — what happens to people actively pursuing their dreams? Once they achieve their goals, do they have to constantly create new goals for themselves? As for Zimmerman, he chooses to believe that people continue to dream, and they will be delighted with the outcome if they choose consistency.
This is what draws in artists that are more “well known” than Zimmerman himself. They are drawn to his simplicity and the way that he incorporates a sense of calmness and stability so effortlessly into his music. His song “Don’t Go Crazy” is just a few lines repeated over and over, with nothing much to accompany other than a guitar and his soothing voice.
“Don’t go crazy / Go slow, release / Go with the flow / Go in peace.”
It is almost as if you can hear your father or grandfather telling you that in the midst of what feels like absolute chaos, all you can do is just pause and take a breath. You simply realize that you cannot control everything or be everything for someone, so there is no point in even trying to be.
It is common for people to think that to be a lyrical genius and to make everyone’s jaw drop to the floor, you have to take a concept and turn it into a million other things that it is not — to the point where even the listener has no idea what the symbolism behind the words is. Where Zimmerman truly wins is in taking a step back and reevaluating everything, realizing there is beauty in simplicity. In so doing, Zimmerman is able to capture the attention of fans and celebrities alike.
The trends of today’s society have not affected his music in the slightest. Zimmerman’s music retains the same sound and feel that it had in 1968. It is a very good reminder that trends are fleeting, and creating something in conjunction with trends will only take you so far.
The tie of including his wife in the vocals of the songs just adds even more to the table for Zimmerman. He brings the two worlds that he loves dearly together to make something magical for all who care to listen, gleaning from the Zimmermans’ knowledge of love. Specifically, the song “Leave It On The Porch Outside” is like the listener getting an inside look at their real-life conversations shared in the comfort of their home. Nothing is special about each conversation, but it just shows the playful nature between the two in a way that not many other things would be able to convey.
Zimmerman’s music is an excellent example of what it means to be content with chasing your dreams without seeking praise or approval. He has lived a life and produced work that has been meaningful to him and his loved ones. His age has not stopped him; it has only enhanced the richness of the stories.
Ultimately, his career is a testament to the importance of chasing your dreams over chasing notoriety.